see also: in July 2007 News Releases:   CBP Air and Marine Acquires Helicopters for Border Security Mission   CBP Officers At El Paso Port Nab 50 Pounds Of Cocaine; Two Juveniles Taken Into Custody   CBP Border Patrol Agent Dies In the Line of Duty   Hong Kong to Scan U.S.-Bound Goods for Radiation as Part of Secure Freight Initiative   Border Patrol Assists in Third Canal Rescue in a Week   CBP Officers Apprehend Fugitive Wanted For Murder, Rape, Burglary   Operation Streamline Nets 1,200-Plus Prosecutions in Arizona ...more on cbp.gov:   CBP News Releases   Press Officers

contacts for this news release

Calexico, Calif.— Customs and Border Protection Calexico, Calif. Port Director Billy Whitford advises travelers and members of the frequent traveler program to remember not to cross into the U.S. with fruits or prohibited products.

"Even if it’s one mango, one avocado or an orange, you are risking losing your SENTRI (frequent traveler) pass," Whitford said, explaining that prohibited products may introduce pests and plant diseases that can substantially damage the U.S. agriculture industry.

Failure to declare such products is a violation and could result in the loss of program privileges permanently, and a substantial fine.

"We've processed a half dozen SENTRI violations involving prohibited items, so we're anxious to inform the community that we take such infractions very seriously and violators will be processed to the full extent of the law," Whitford said.

Since the SENTRI lane opened at the downtown Calexico port of entry in December 2005, 11,500 members have been certified. To avoid delays in the SENTRI lane during peak times, Whitford recommends that a member call (760) 768-2383 or check the www.cbp.gov Web site for wait times, and plan crossings accordingly.

Members of the public interested in becoming a member of the SENTRI program may obtain further information or complete an application on the same Web site or visit the SENTRI office at the east port of entry in Calexico during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Please view www.cbp.gov (Know Before You Go) for a list of prohibited items.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control, and protection of our Nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.